However, SGN then agreed to halve the length of the works to minimise disruption and is now on course to finish even earlier, with the road set to reopen this Friday (July 12).

The huge diversion drivers have had to take during the Rye Road closure. Picture: SGN (13544118)

Kent County Council's cabinet member for highways, Mike Whiting, said: "There was huge concern locally at the original plans to close the road for 11 weeks during the summer, which would have had a massive effect on local residents and businesses.

“We asked SGN to look again at their plans and the period was reduced to five weeks.

“I am delighted to hear that through the use of new ways of replacing the old pipes has further reduced that time and they will now complete its works well ahead of schedule."